Russia hits back as drug allegations bring threat of cold war

Greene, the world 400 metres hurdles champion, who defends his title in Russia next month, said that Moscow should not have the privilege of hosting the competition if they are not obeying the rules or ethics of the sport

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Greene, the world 400 metres hurdles champion, who defends his title in Russia next month, said that Moscow should not have the privilege of hosting the competition if they are not obeying the rules or ethics of the sportStephen Pond/Getty Images

The most powerful man in Russian athletics has struck back at claims that the
IAAF World Championships in Moscow next month are being devalued by drugs,
deceit and denial.

As the number of banned Russians rose to a staggering 44 — with a source
telling The Times that another big-name Olympian will soon be added
to the roll of dishonour — the president of the All-Russia Athletic
Federation accused Britain of rekindling historic fires and warned against
Cold War boycotts. He then called on cheats to be treated as criminals.

Valentin Balakhnichev launched his counter-attack as British athletes gathered
in Birmingham this